Prithvi Mudra
Yoga mudras are hand gestures that help in focusing and balancing the 5 elements that is present within the body of human beings.
Prithvi Mudra is called as such because it helps in equalizing the element earth or “Prithvi” in the body. It also decreases the fire or Agri element at the same time. This type of mudra is said to start or activate the root chakra and is the only type of mudra that have such kind of properties. Prithvi Mudra is also known as Agni-shamak mudra and Prithvi-vardhak.
What are the benefits of Prithvi Mudra?
Prtvhvi Mudra is helpful in treating a number of diseases:
· Helps in treating a person who lacks endurance and stamina
· Unexplainable weight loss and emaciation
· Osteoporosis
· Weak muscles
· Osteo Arthritis
· Chronic fatigue and convalescence
· Skin rashes and brittle nails
· Burning sensation in the stomach, eyes, hands, feet and head
· Dry, burning and cracked skin problems
· Paralysis and poliomyelitis
· Jaundice
· Hypothyroidism
· Ulcer
· Stomach problems
It also helps in opening the mind and frees it from having irrational beliefs and prejudices. Aside from that it fosters belief in one’s self and boosts self-confidence. Most of all the Prithvi Mudra helps people who are looking to find spirituality in their life.
How it works
The ring finger symbolizes the earth element while the thumb finger symbolizes the fire element. When these fingers are joined together, the thumb finger fire element decreases while the earth element in the ring finger increases.
Earth element is important in the body. It is beneficial in tissues like skin, nails, muscles, tendons, cartilage, internal organs and more. Practicing this mudra helps in strengthening all of these vital parts in the body. It also invigorates and builds these tissues hence increasing strength, vitality and endurance.
The earth element also helps in healing all nasal disorders and keeps them healthy and functioning well. It is also important in the bodily component “humor Kapha” which helps to increase them. However, this should be practiced in moderation especially for those who already have excess Kapha in their body.
Agni element is associated with the body temperature including metabolism. Since Prithvi mudra decreases the fire element in the body, it helps in relieving disorders that are caused by having a hyperactive Agni – diseases like fever, inflammation, emanciations etc.
How to do the Prithvi Mudra
1. Practicing this pose can be done with by almost anyone. Sit in a comfortable position. You can either do the Lotus Pose, Easy Pose or even while you are standing with the Mountain Pose.
2. Touch the tip of your ring finger going to the tip of your thumb. The rest of your fingers should remain pointing straight.
3. Hold the position for a few minutes.
